Author: James Edward Mills

Recently Madison, Wisconsin was named the city in America with the highest quality of living. This latest accolade bestowed upon my adopted hometown came as no surprise to me. After more than 20 years as a resident of the Mad City I've long known of the many wonderful qualities that make this such a truly wonderful place to live. But apart from the dry demographic facts of affordable housing, the availability of health care, economic prosperity, a proliferation of ethnic restaurants and a thriving arts scene at core of...

Jamal's senses snapped into focus with a sudden burst of light. The darkness that enveloped him had lasted only an instant as his mind recovered from the shock of having fallen. In those first few moments he wasn't entirely sure where he was. His mama's kitchen was the safest place he could imagine. But as the smell of cooking filled his nostrils, in his mouth there was the distinct taste of his own blood. "Why is it so cold?" he thought to himself.
Then suddenly all at once he...

In this short film from the Wisconsin Media Lab we get a wonderful view into the ancient tradition of wild rice harvesting in the Sokaogon Chippewa Community of Mole Lake. As part of the Ways series on Great Lakes native culture and language producer Finn Ryan shares the story of Fred Ackley who at 64 carries on the practice of ricing to preserve his heritage along with a holistic relationship with the natural world. Manoomin: Food that grows on the water is a poignant essay that illustrates the importance of honoring...

Fifty years ago this summer in 1964 Charles Madison Crenchaw became the first African-American to climb to the summit of Mount McKinley, the tallest peak in North America. Also known as Denali this peak represents the highest physical point that anyone can achieve in this country. And as metaphor of freedom, this seminal moment in history beautifully illustrates the references to mountains alluded to in Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech.
"This will be the day when all of God's children will be able...

In a Washington, DC hotel room I resigned myself to the image in the mirror. Years ago I swore among other things that I would never work a job that required me to wear a tie. And as I dressed for an appointment at the prestigious National Press Club in denim jeans, a long sleeve shirt and a blazer I finally abandoned my last attempt at conformity. I slipped loose the top button of my collar, grabbed my camera bag and made for the elevator. Still known in...

The Outdoor Retailer Summer Market starts this week in Salt Lake City Utah and everyone is excited about the many new products on display at hundreds of booths across the Salt Palace and out in the Pavilions. With thousands of attractions to tantalize the attention of attendees each exhibitor will do all that they can to catch the eye of every passing buyer. But even with the latest in design innovation and state-of-the-art technology vendors will have to ply a little more creativity to bring more customers into...